India Mission Trip | Update 3
March 20, 2026 | Heather Rinehart
Our 2nd day began with a flight to Andhra Pradesh (1,500 miles south of New Delhi) alongside Pastor Abraham and Ranjit. Thanks to the Vineyard 2025 Light up the Night for India fundraiser, we had the incredible opportunity to witness firsthand the newly completed addition to the school.
Pastor Mark had the honor of leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony for this beautiful expansion. The new space includes a welcoming reception area for students, updated restroom facilities, and additional office space—each thoughtfully designed to support the school’s growing needs.
We had the privilege of meeting the principal of the school (Bethseda Christian Academy), his wife (who serves as the school administrator), Rev. Biju, and 23 dedicated teachers. The school currently serves 450 students and is preparing to welcome up to 600 students for the June 2026 enrollment. With this new addition, the school not only meets its current needs but also qualifies to expand into higher education. They have applied to add grades 9–12 and are now awaiting approval.
Later in the day, we enjoyed attending the school’s dance program. It was such a joy to see the students having fun and expressing themselves while their parents looked on with pride.
Although the school provides a Christian, Bible-based learning environment, many of the students come from Hindu backgrounds. The mission is clear and powerful: to teach each child that they are loved by Jesus, to love others regardless of religion, and to believe that God desires a hopeful and fulfilling life for them.
By instilling these values alongside a strong education, the school is helping lay a foundation for lasting impact and greater prosperity in the community.